Structural Forensic Engineer

Nederveld, Inc.; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Nederveld, Inc. is seeking a Forensic Structural Engineer to investigate building failures. This role involves hands-on fieldwork, testing, and research to determine causes of structural issues without engaging in design aspects.

The ideal candidate will have a master's or Ph.D. in civil engineering and at least five years of supervisory or project management experience, along with a Professional Engineer license. This full-time position requires regular travel and adherence to safety practices.

Qualifications

• 5 years supervisory or project management experience.
• Licensed Professional Engineer.
• Valid Driver's License in good standing.

Responsibilities

• Complete hands-on failure analysis assignments.
• Document facts and report findings.
• Conduct technical research.

Skills

Self-motivated

Problem-solving

Detail-oriented

Written and verbal communication

Education

Master's in civil engineering

Ph.D. in civil engineering

Job description

This role involves investigative work in the field, office, and lab to determine the root cause of failures, mainly related to the building's skeleton (structural elements) and skin (building envelope). The Forensic Structural Engineer will take a hands‑on approach to engineering, working in the field, testing facility, and office. Additionally, this role will require the individual to learn new things, conduct technical research, and write engineering reports.

The Forensic Structural Engineer will branch out from typical design work and investigate to determine the cause of failures related to building structures. This role consists of very little to near no design aspects. The focus is on the laws of physics, and the basis of engineering principles, and the correct application of these to the built environment. The role requires the engineer to “go beyond the code" and like it!

Essential Functions

• Complete hands‑on failure analysis assignments in the field and testing facility
• Document facts and report finalization of findings
• Technical research
• Ability to apply theories and knowledge to real‑world situations
• Complete assignments on time as requested by the client
• Conduct ethical practices consistently
• Convey complex issues in an understandable manner to a lay audience through report writing

Essential Skills for Performing the Job

• Self‑motivated
• Problem‑solving
• Detail‑oriented
• Written and verbal communication

Required Education and Experience

• Master's in civil engineering
• Ph.D. in civil engineering
• 5 years supervisory or project management experience

Other Requirements

• Licensed Professional Engineer
• Valid Driver's License in good standing, and demonstrated safe driving habits
• Ability to pass a background check as required for the position

Position Type/Expected Hours

This is a full‑time position. Some flexibility in hours is permitted, but s/he must be available during the standard work hours of 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Physical Demands

This position is a combination of fieldwork, travel‑related work, and sedentary work. An employee is regularly required to drive, stand, sit, walk, reach, type, talk, hear, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, climb, push, pull, carry, and lift up to 50 pounds. An employee may also be required to traverse wooded and/or uneven terrain, enter structures, use ladders, walk on roofs, enter small spaces, and work in various weather conditions.

Travel

Regular travel will be required as a part of the Structural Forensic Engineer job. Some overnight travel may be required.

Disclaimer

Please note this position description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Eligible candidates will be legally authorized to work in the United States without employment visa sponsorship.

Nederveld Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.